Oslob: Sumilon Island and Tumalog Falls

To complete my Oslob adventure, next two destinations after whale shark watching were Sumilon Island and Tumalog Falls.

Puerto Sumilon

I arrived at Puerto Sumilon, the jump-off point to Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort. All tourists heading to the resort gather here for a short briefing on the dos and don’ts before going to the island. In traditional Filipino hospitality, we were treated to a welcome drink. Those coming here with vehicles are also welcome to use the free parking area. There are also vans and cars that can be rented here, seating anywhere from 4 to 14 people. It’s best to ask at your lodgings for the best deals.

8:20 AM

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort Private Dock

We’ve arrived! Sumilon Island is a 24-hectare stretch of nature, offering a great Nature experience. This was the first marine protected area in the country, and was made into a fish sanctuary way back in 1974. Hence, it’s a famous dive spot with a lot of marine species. It also offers various activities like fishing, swimming, trekking, spelunking, and more!

I didn’t have time to do everything, but I did have a blast trekking! I’m guessing I was the only one who did this adventure, since most of the other guests went either kayaking, swimming, or snorkeling right away. In fact, in the middle of my trek (and halfway to the lush wilderness of Sumilon), I considered turning back and joining them instead. But my heart told me to just follow the trail, and enjoy.

Sumilon Lightouse

I’m glad I did it because the trail I was trekking lead me to where the lighthouse stands. Sumilon Island has a lighthouse. Though it is not allowed to climb the lighthouse but I did (I was all alone trekking anyway). I just wanted to see a magnificently breathtaking view of the whole island.

Sumilon Watch Tower

Next to the lighthouse also stands the island’s ‘baluarte’ or watch tower. This is different from the watch tower in Oslob town.

And while trekking, I ran into a group of campers where I met Sir Jing, one of the founders of Camp Red Bushcraft and Survival Guild. Sir Jing was conducting training with Bluewaters Sumilon staff. They’ve been camping here days ago. I was an intruder here 🙂 🙂 🙂 but anyway, I was welcomed and was invited to rest and spend few minutes with them. I wish I have more time with them but my time was so short and there’s still more I needed to explore in the island.

Sumilon Island Sandbar

I went on trekking the island until I reached the path leading to the island’s famous sandbar. Arriving the sandbar, I decided to go for a swim before the sun became too hot.

I also had the chance to kayak later!

12:00 PM
At 12 noon, we had some good lunch buffet featuring fresh seafood catch and more. It was really filling, and the camaraderie between us tourists set the tone for the remaining half-day.

1:00 PMThough I can stay in the island for the entire day but I decided to take the boat back from Sumilon, and onto my next stop!

2:00 PM

Tumalog Falls

After 20 minutes ‘habal habal’ ride, I finally was at Tumalog Waterfalls. This mesmerizing curtain of fine water is really Nature’s work of art!

Once you get to the falls, the misty wonder of Tumalog —- and of course, the clear and cool pools beneath it and its runoffs —- will keep you in awe.

3:30 PM
By this time, I had gone back to Guilly’s Place. I was sitting in my room, and absorbing the day’s adventure.

It’s always amazing how Nature can pack so much of its beauty in such small places. Oslob was blessed with such distinction, with world-class natural beauty within a stone’s throw of each other. And while Cebu as a whole shares the same distinction, Oslob will always stand out in memory as a precious jewel that deserves more love from people around the world!

If you find yourself in the vicinity of Cebu, do yourself a favor and take a day trip (or two!) to this beautiful and little town. You’ll thank yourself later!